Answered Questions

how long does it take for a person to make a full recovery?

“Sue Burd responds:”

The amount of time that it takes someone to recover from meningitis varies. Unfortunately, some people never make a full recovery. Due to the medical nature of your question, I recommend that you speak to your health care provider.

Of note, there are different types of meningitis – viral meningitis, which is caused by a virus, and bacterial meningitis, which is caused by one of several types and strains of bacteria. There can be many after effects from meningococcal meningitis, which is a form of bacterial meningitis. These include hearing loss, brain damage, kidney disease or limb amputations.

There are two meningococcal vaccines available in the U.S. One is called Menactra, and the other is called Menomune. Menactra is licensed for people 2 through 55 years of age and is expected to provide longer-term immunity than Memomune. Menomune has been available since the 1970s. It may be used if Menactra is not available, and is the only meningococcal vaccine licensed for people older than 55.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends immunization with Menactra for all adolescents 11-18 years of age, and some states have passed legislation requiring immunization for adolescents. It is important to know that while these vaccines protect against most types of meningococcal disease, they do not prevent all cases.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this National Meningitis Association (NMA) Web site is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment, and NMA recommends consultation with your clinician or other health care provider. Information on this Web site is provided for informational purposes only.